Jean Charles Roy

John was born on December 9, 1946, in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, Canada, where he grew up surrounded by family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Laurier and Lucette (Cyr) Roy, and his brother, Jacques Roy.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Gisèle Roy, and their three children: Patrick Roy (Deborah) of Charlotte, NC; Genevieve Holmes (Christopher) of Charlotte, NC; and Daniel Roy (Lauren) of Apex, NC. He also leaves behind three cherished grandchildren- Cailin Holmes, Camden Roy, and Lila Grace Roy; as well as his sister, Jackie Rutherford of Vankleek Hill, Canada, nieces and nephews also of Canada.

After growing up in a small rural community and later moving to Ottawa, John and his family relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1984. He spent more than 35 years working for Nortel, where he built lasting friendships and a reputation for hard work and for being charismatic. After retirement, he continued to share his gift for connecting with people while working in the rental car industry, where his warmth, humor, and easy going spirit touched countless lives.

John never met a stranger. He was always ready with a story, a laugh, or a good deal to share. He loved finding the best bargains in town, striking up conversations with anyone he met, and cherishing time spent with family and friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Bernadette Catholic Parish in Fuquay Varina, North Carolina on Wednesday, October 22nd at 1:00pm. Following the service, a celebration of life or what John would have called “a party to celebrate him” will be held to honor his memory at his favorite watering hole, Shakey Ray’s, in Apex.

Lastly, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in support of something John would have truly wanted. As you may know, his daughter Genevieve suffers from ALS and is working to raise funding for a mobility van. If you feel inclined, in John’s honor, please make a donation to that end at https://tinyurl.com/Jean-Roy . Or, as John would have loved, next time you’re out with friends, buy someone a drink, share a story about him and raise a toast.